Government resets their approach to copyright and AI after strong sector feedback
The UK Government has today (18 March 2026) confirmed a shift in its position on copyright and AI.
Following a consultation that closed in February 2025, the UK Government published its report today that states:
- A broad copyright exception with an optout is no longer its preferred approach.
- The Government will not introduce any new exceptions to copyright at this time.
- It will instead explore alternative approaches to support innovation while upholding creators’ rights.
Background and DACS involvement
The Government’s consultation, which closed in February 2025 received 11,500 responses with only around 3% of responses supporting the Government’s previous preferred option of a text and data mining exception.
DACS’ AI and Artists report has consistently shown that artists want credit, control and remuneration, and DACS has engaged with policymakers throughout, championing transparency and licensing as fair, workable solutions. DACS’ contributions to the consultation are reflected throughout both the Government’s report and the accompanying impact assessment.
The next phase
The Government identified four areas where it will focus the next phase of this work:
- Digital Replicas
- Labelling AI-generated content
- Creator control and transparency
- Independent creatives
The Government has also committed to establishing a Creative Content Exchange (CCE), which is intended to be “a trusted marketplace for digitised cultural and creative assets.”
Our response
Christian Zimmermann, CEO, DACS said: “Copyright is a fundamental principle allowing artists control and fair pay for the use of their work. It is vital that our government does not open the door to tech companies to train AI models on artists’ works without permission and pay. We are pleased the Government has announced today that no new copyright exceptions will be introduced at this time – which the UK's visual artists and creators welcome. DACS will continue to engage with government to work towards solutions for control, fair remuneration and transparency.”
Looking ahead
The Government has proposed to “gather more evidence on how copyright laws are impacting the development and deployment of AI across the economy and the economic benefits of reform.”
DACS will continue engaging with Ministers and officials to ensure artists have the ability to enforce their rights and receive fair remuneration, especially as issues around transparency and payment remain unresolved.
Read more
- Find out more about how DACS can protect your copyright and ensure fair licensing for you
- Read about how DACS continues to advocate for artist rights and royalties in the age of AI
- Discover how DACS can help you
